Get ready for a rare celestial event! On June 6 and 7, catch the largest planet in our solar system, Jupiter, alongside the smallest and fastest-moving planet, Mercury, in the eastern sky.
The two planets will appear close to each other near the horizon, about 10 degrees apart (a fist’s width at arm’s length). To spot them, find a clear view of the western horizon after sunset on June 6. The planets will be visible for around 45 minutes after sunset, but only if the sun has set below the horizon.
As the nights progress, Mercury will move ahead of Jupiter in the night sky due to its faster orbit. On both evenings, you can observe the two planets within a distance that fits comfortably inside a pair of 10×50 binoculars.
This rare alignment highlights the vast differences between these two planets. Jupiter is a gas giant, while Mercury is a rocky world with extreme temperature fluctuations. Their orbits are also very different: Jupiter takes 12 Earth years to complete one orbit and has a short day, while Mercury completes its circuit around the sun in just 88 days.
For stargazers of all levels, this event is a great opportunity to explore the night sky. Consider investing in quality binoculars or telescopes for a closer look. Our guides to the best binocular and telescope deals can help you find the perfect equipment. We also have a comprehensive guide to the top smartphone stargazing apps available in 2025.
Don’t miss this chance to capture stunning images of Jupiter and Mercury. Share your photos with Space.com readers by sending them to [email protected], along with your name and location. Join our Space Forums to discuss the latest space news, night sky events, and more!
Source: https://www.space.com/stargazing/catch-jupiter-and-mercury-side-by-side-in-the-evening-sky-this-week